Vegan Black Forest Cupcakes

Serves 8 | Prep time: 10 mins | Cooking time: 20 mins

INGREDIENTS

• 200g/7oz of 70% vegan dark chocolate
• 180g/6.3oz all-purpose flour (or pre-mixed gluten-free flour)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 200ml/6.8oz coconut milk
• 100g/3.5oz applesauce
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 Tbsp melted coconut oil

Topping

• 1/2 cup cherry jam
• Vegan whipped cream (such as Soya Too!)
• 8 fresh cherries 

METHOD

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C/356F. In one bowl, sift and mix the flour and baking powder. In a second bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave.
2. Whisk in the melted coconut oil, applesauce, vanilla, and coconut milk into your melted dark chocolate till smooth.
3. Gradually add the dry mixture to the liquid mixture until a homogeneous and very smooth batter is obtained. Fill lined cupcake moulds till 3/4 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked.
4. Allow to cool thoroughly.
5. When the cupcakes have cooled, dig a small well in the center using a small spoon or a melon baller.
6. Fill each hole with a generous teaspoon of cherry jam, or cherry jelly (preferably homemade).
7. Fill a piping bag with the vegan whipped cream and decorate them. Decorate with a fresh cherry on top and enjoy!